Pathgate News

Chariot Of Courage

At the Classical Internal Arts Foundation Study Retreat held in August, one of the participants was James O’Shea, who arrived in a wheelchair. He explained to Ven. Lama Dondrup Dorje that he lost both his legs in a train accident when he was aged 19, and that he was in the right place at the right time to learn a big lesson in life.

In spite of his obvious physical handicap, James has performed as a professional dancer with CandoCo, the renowned integrated dance company of disabled and non-disabled performers. James gained further recognition earlier this year by winning ‘Dancing on Wheels’ on a BBC TV show from the makers of Strictly Come Dancing, with his dance partner Caroline Flack. Remarking during the filming of Dancing on Wheels that he wants to be challenged, James is currently training to become a competitive swimmer at the London Olympics in 2012.

During his time at the retreat, James fitted himself comfortably into the dormitory-style accommodation without any need for special access or assistance. A man of great integrity and courage, James O’Shea has demonstrated to the world by his own action that obstacles are in fact blessings in disguise.During his time at the retreat, James fitted himself comfortably into the dormitory-style accommodation without any need for special access or assistance. A man of great integrity and courage, James O’Shea has demonstrated to the world by his own action that obstacles are in fact blessings in disguise.